Wednesday, November 12, 2008

We've all heard the mantra 'shop local'. This is not only environmentally, but economically friendly. Supporting small, local businesses this holiday season is a great way to make sure the wealth is shared with people who really live in your community, not major national corporations.

Making a whole day of this is more fun than you might think! In honor of my upcoming trunk show, I have created a walking tour of the unique and diverse establishments in Del Ray. So, come spend some time shopping and supporting local business.

Start at Caboose Cafe, 2419 Mt. Vernon Ave, for a hearty breakfast and some hot coffee. Walking south on Mt Vernon Ave, check out the international cheese offerings at Cheesetique. Peek into Eight Hands Around (2301 Mt. Vernon Ave) for fun antiques and cute baby items.

For the REAL DEAL, stop at A Show of Hands and get a *huge* bag fix. I'm having a solo trunk show this coming Saturday, November 15 from 11am to 4pm. Also while there, check out Sandy Pea soaps and Leah Sturgis earrings. Baby blankets and ribbon head bands, painted boxes and Christmas ornaments, the selection is endless!

For all the dog lovers in your life, stop in at Barkley Square, which is a gourmet dog bakery and boutique. Situated in a bright pink building, it will be sure to catch your eye and your doggie's heart.

Stroll down The Ave toward Mancini's for an afternoon snack and pick me up, such as homemade brownies and cupcakes. Take something home for later!

These are just a very small sample of the wonderful shopping pickings in Del Ray. Full of great restaurants, one of kind shops and interesting finds, you will be able to easily spend the whole day doing your holiday shopping!

Perhaps she will discuss the new LED christmas lights. While at $15-20 a strand, they are more expensive than other options, they use up to 80% less energy to operate. "A string of 300 mini’s cost on average $13.12 to operate; LEDs use so little energy, 300 of them will only cost $1.25 to power up." Likewise, this option is much longer lasting and safer, as these lights don't run as hot.

ARTSCAPEFriday, July 21, 11am to 9pmSaturday, July 22, 11am to 9pmSunday, 11am to 8pmArtists' Market will be on Mount Royal Avenue from Mosher Street to North Charles Street, my booth TBA.Facebook Event Here and Website Here

About Me

Jenafusion Fashion Accessories are a collection of original items made from mostly recycled material. These are designed, hand crafted and sold locally in the DC metro area. The line includes unique purses, little bags, scarves, hats and other surprises!
Where Earth, Art and Fashion Collide!

Find out more about Jen-A-Fusion!

F.A.Q.s

These are the most asked questions I get. If you have one you really need to have added, please email me! Thanks to all the curious minds out there...

Q~ How did you get started?A~I don't really remember how or why I started sewing, but I did a lot of it by the time I was in high school. My grandmother was an accomplished seamstress and my mother also sewed a lot of our clothing. She taught me a little bit, but I mainly taught myself. I have always crafted, made stuff and been creative. I especially liked re-using materials or using them in new ways. For example, I used old makeup to 'paint' with, I cut up and patched together old clothing. The artist I am today has deep roots.

In 2004, I graduated from Marymount University with a BA in Fashion Design. Even then, my senior line was designed around making artwear clothing from recycled materials.

Q~ Where do you get your fabrics?A~ EVERYWHERE! Yes, I do buy a small portion of the cloth at fabric stores. However, I already own a HUGE amount of fabric. I obtain discontinued remnants from design studios, old clothing from friends and housewares from estate sales. I trash hunt in my neighborhood, and perhaps even yours too!

Q~ Why are some of the little bags different sizes?A~ I use mostly samples and/or scrap fabric for those bags, which are different sizes to begin with. If I trimmed them all down to the same size, it would create more waste.

Q~ You know what you should make?...Tissue holders, ipod cases, backpacks, headbands, dog coats, fanny packs, walker saddle bags...A~ Thanks for the input, I'll get right on it.

Q~And, diaper bags!A~ No, these people make them sooo much better and totally cool and fun and a fleece vest too! OMG! Check out www.dadgear.com!

Q~I'm inspired, I want to make my own bag, how can I copy yours?A~ I am flattered, but I design and draft all my own bags. If I told you, I'd have to silence you. Be creative and have fun on your own!

Q~What's next?A~I want to make some funky scarves. And, perhaps some wall hangings? Who knows!